I've figured out the perfect way for me to finally get a sailboat. I'm going to build one! It will be a lot cheaper than buying one and a lot more rewarding. I can't even imagine the wonderful feeling that must result from building my own boat. It will be like bringing something to life, like giving birth. I can't wait to try it!

I've been looking around online for boat plans and found a great site, www.bateau.com. It's got plans for quite a few nice-looking boats. Building the boats requires nothing more than basic woodworking skills. I'm pretty sure I can handle it, and I'm damn sure it's going to be fun.

My goal is to build the V12 from the Bateau site. You can click here to take a look at this boat. It looks nice and simple and a good way for me to go sailing often. I've started a separate fund to raise money for this boat. I've calculated that $600 should cover all expenses, including the sail, plywood, mistakes, and everything. So far I have put away $53 in this fund. I created this classic thermometer so you could easily watch my progress. But hey, if any of you are feeling excessively generous, you can send me money to help my boat fund grow! Please email me if, for some reason, you want to help.